Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '간판' refers to a signboard, typically used to display the name of a store, business, or advertisement. It is a common noun you will see in everyday life, especially when talking about shops, restaurants, or any commercial establishments.
Common Contexts
'간판' is often used when discussing the physical signs outside shops or buildings. It can also imply the reputation or image of a business indirectly, as in phrases like '간판만 좋다' (only the signboard is good), meaning the business looks good on the outside but may not be good in reality.
Collocations and Patterns
- 간판이 걸리다: a signboard is hung or displayed
- 간판을 바꾸다: to change the signboard
- 간판이 크다/작다: the signboard is big/small
These collocations are useful when describing the appearance or changes related to signboards.
Register and Politeness
'간판' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without any change in formality.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '간판' with '표지판' (traffic sign or informational sign). Remember, '간판' is specifically for business or store signs, while '표지판' is used for road signs or public information signs.